Faissal Khan reveals the figure of monthly allowance received from Aamir Khan

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) Actor Faissal Khan, who has severed all ties with his brother Aamir Khan and his family, has divulged the details of his initial allowance given to him by the superstar.

On Monday, Faissal spoke with IANS after a press-conference, which he had organised to set the record straight on some accounts.

He said that he was kept on an allowance for his expenditure. He told IANS, “I started with getting INR 30, 000 and gradually it increased. I also worked with Aamir as a script doctor for a fee”.

Faissal also alleged that he has suffered a lot because of family politics, and pointed the fingers at his mother Zeenat Hussain, and his sister Nikhat, and his brother-in-law Santosh Hegde. He went on to praise director Sandeep Reddy Vanga for making ‘Animal’ and portraying the dynamics of a troubled family inferring that he harbours same feelings for his brother-in-law as Ranbir Kapoor’s titular character harbours for his brother-in-law in the film.

Elsewhere during the conversation, he said that problems in his life started with his family pressurising him for marriage.

He told IANS, “It all started in 2002 with my family pressurising me for marriage. Then I wrote a letter in which I mentioned that my sister Nikhat got married thrice, Aamir has a child out of wedlock with Jessika Hines. I asked in that letter, if this is the state of their personal lives, who are they to give suggestions to me on how I should live my life. It all started from there. Then I stopped meeting them. So, they alleged that I’m suffering from mental health because I stopped meeting the family”.

He further mentioned that currently he is at peace. However, he sometimes takes medication for anxiety when the pressure from the family gets too much.

–IANS

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Faissal Khan confirms brother Aamir has child out of wedlock with British journalist

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) Actor Faissal Khan, who has severed all ties with his brother Aamir Khan and his family, has shared that the Bollywood superstar has a child out of a wedlock with a British journalist Jessika Hines.

On Monday, Faissal spoke with the media, and claimed that Aamir has an illicit child with Jessika Hines. Faissal said that problems in his life started with his family pressurising him for marriage.

He told IANS, “It all started in 2002 with my family pressurising me for marriage. Then I wrote a letter in which I mentioned that my sister Nikhat got married thrice, Aamir has a child out of wedlock with Jessika Hines. I asked in that letter, if this is the state of their personal lives, who are they to give suggestions to me on how I should live my life. It all started from there. Then I stopped meeting them. So, they alleged that I’m suffering from mental health because I stopped meeting the family”.

He further mentioned that currently he is at peace. However, he sometimes takes medication for anxiety when it gets too much.

He said, “I’m very much at peace. And I am living my life. Sometimes when my family pressure becomes too much, I get anxious. So, I do go to the doctor for my anxiety, and anxiety medicine. Because all the pressure that my family puts on me and the torture they give me. So, I have stress”.

He also shared that he legally tried to pursue his ousting from the reality show ‘Bigg Boss’, as he said, “I was given a signing amount, and suddenly I was told, ‘You are not doing it’. So, I was like, ‘What happened? Why? I pursued it legally”.

“My lawyer told me, ‘Let’s try to get the entire signing bond because they are firing you’. There was a court case and we needed the money. So my lawyer told me, ‘Let’s try, and a court case. If we get it, we will get it. We need money too’. So we filed a case but I knew that I won’t win given the agreement of ‘Bigg Boss’ is very strong. But we took a chance. The entire signing amount was around INR 7-8 lakhs”, he added.

–IANS

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Vicky Kaushal turns rockstar, Rashmika Mandanna dons’ chef avatar for their latest collaboration

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna have once again joined forces for an advertisement.

Vicky swings between two extremes: a flamboyant rockstar brimming with energy and a royal avatar radiating old-world charm. On the other hand, Rashmika is seen as a grounded yet commanding politician in her first avatar and a spirited chef in the other.

Along with Vicky and Rashmika, the campaign will also see Ranvir Shorey, Murali Sharma, Seema Pahwa, and Javed Jaffrey.

Speaking about his latest project, Vicky said: “I am thrilled to continue my association with Birla Opus Paints for this groundbreaking campaign. ‘Birla Opus Assurance’ is a bold move that I believe will resonate deeply with homeowners, and I enjoyed conveying and bringing this to life on screen.”

Rashmika added, “I have always believed in making choices that offer both quality and reliability. Birla Opus Paints’ ‘Assurance’ campaign reflects this very belief. I am delighted to be a part of such an initiative for a brand like Birla Opus Paints.”

Refreshing your memory, Vicky and Rashmika were seen sharing screen together in Laxman Utekar’s historical drama, “Chhaava”.

An adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant, the drama saw Vicky in the titular role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, whereas Rashmika played his better half, Yesubai Bhonsale.

Talking about playing the Maratha emperor, Vicky claimed that he poured his heart into every moment of “Chhaava”.

“It’s an honour to bring the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj into every home. Chhaava has been a journey of courage and pride, and I poured my heart into every moment”, he shared.

Shedding light on her experience, the ‘Pushpa’ actress said: “Playing Maharani Yesubai in ‘Chhaava’ was an honour for me. She was a woman of immense strength, grace, and resilience, a true pillar beside Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Bringing her story to the screen, especially in such a monumental historical drama, has been truly special.”

–IANS

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Mrunal Thakur decided to ‘open a piece of her heart’ by dropping some candid clicks from her camera

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) Ahead of World Photography Day on Tuesday, actress Mrunal Thakur decided to ‘open a piece of her heart’ by dropping some candid clicks from her camera.

From a posing shadow in the sand to the beauty of the endless sea, the ‘Sita Ramam’ actress has captured it all.

Her album further included a calming still of a church, along with a photo of a bartender at work.

Through her latest post, Mrunal also expressed her love for photography, saying: “I have always believed that ”A picture is worth a thousand words”… and ever since I started taking my love for photography more seriously, I feel it even more. Photography is one of my fav things and I want to know and do more. I’ve always had this keeda in me to learn, to explore, to pick up every little thing that sparks curiosity.”

She revealed that she decided to move her passion to practice last year when she brought home her first Leica camera.

“It was part joy and part terror! I was so excited to start clicking pictures and also terrified that I would be terrible at it. But I decided to take the leap and at least try…”, she added.

Sharing that the beauty of photography lies in the process and patience, the ‘Super 30’ actress revealed: “So, with World Photography Day around the corner, I thought I’d share a few stills from my camera (this is after the cycle of inner criticising, contemplating, and spending what feels like 92,836 hours overthinking) but maybe that’s also part of the beauty of it… the process, the pause and the patience”.

On the professional front, Mrunal will next be seen in “Dacoit”, opposite Adivi Sesh.

Helmed by Shaneil Deo, the much-anticipated project will also star Anurag Kashyap in a crucial role.

“Dacoit” is set to release on December 25 this year.

–IANS

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Malini Awasthi calls Saiyaan from Mannu Kya Karegga her ‘identity’

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) After “Humnava”, producer Sharad Mehra’s Curious Eyes Cinema and veteran composer Lalit Pandit have delivered another musical gem—”Saiyaan” for their forthcoming romantic comedy, “Mannu Kya Karegga”.

Crooned by Malini Awasthi, the track has been infused with Lalit Pandit’s signature artistry.

The music video of “Saiyaan” is taken to the next level by actress Saachi’s graceful and rhythmic dance performance.

Sharing her experience, Malini stated: “It was a truly beautiful experience lending my voice to one of the most iconic songs of my journey, ‘Saiyaan’—a song that has, in many ways, become my identity. This traditional gem from Awadh is one that people request me to sing wherever I travel, and it always carries the fragrance of our folk culture.

Revealing how she came on board, Malini added: “When Lalit ji called me one day and asked if I would sing it for a film, I immediately felt both joy and responsibility. Soon after, I came to Bombay and recorded it with a live orchestra, which was in itself such a rare and moving experience. Later, when I learnt that the makers wanted to feature me as well, it came as a wonderful surprise.”

“In today’s time, when all kinds of songs are being created, it makes me deeply happy to see filmmakers giving importance to music that belongs to our soil, to our traditions. It reflects the immense respect the writer, producer, and director hold for folk music. Meeting the young talents Vyom and Saachi was equally delightful—they were so humble, so respectful, and it gave me great hope to see such sincerity in the next generation,” she concluded.

“Mannu Kya Karegga” features Vinay Pathak, Kumud Mishra, and Charu Shankar in key roles, along with others.

Touted to be a heartfelt tale of love, struggle, and rediscovery, the film promises an emotional ride that feels both raw and real.

“Mannu Kya Karegga” is expected to hit the cinema halls on September 12.

–IANS

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Aamir Khan’s brother, Faissal Khan, claims that their mother forced him to marry her sister

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) Actor Aamir Khan’s brother, Faissal Khan, made a sensational revelation that their mother, Zeenat Hussain forced him to marry his aunt (mousi) back in 2002-2003. Interacting with the media on Monday, he made several more allegation on his family – while some were new, others were re-iterated by him form the past.

The ‘Mela’ actor has accused his mother, Zeenat Hussain, his sister Nikhat Hegde, and brother-in-law, Santosh Hegde of severing ties with his family.

He claimed that it was them who misguided Aamir. However, he added that the ‘PK’ actor should have known better, as he is not a kid anymore.

He further alleged that the press release shared by Aamir and the family was misleading, as they had not shared any dates. He claimed that they are raising old issues without putting the dates, making people believe that all the events took place recently.

On Sunday, Faissal dropped an Instagram post, opening up about cutting ties with his family. He shared that he has chosen to part ways with his family for his personal “healing and growth.”

His post read: “Official Announcement…With a heavy heart yet renewed courage, I wish to share that I have severed all family ties, as declared through a public notice. This step, though difficult, is essential for my healing and growth.”

“Life now enters a new chapter of freedom, dignity, and self-discovery one that I embrace with positivity, truth, and strength,” he added.

Earlier, interacting with a digital platform, Faissal claimed that Aamir locked him inside his residence for a whole year. He further alleged that during this period, he was administered medication against his will, saying that he was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia.

Faissal further said that his mother and sister had filed a case against him for being a danger to society due to his alleged diagnosis.

Aamir and his family later issued an official statement on the matter, saying that Faissal is misrepresenting events.

–IANS

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Second single Thimurukaari from KPY Bala’s ‘Gandhi Kannadi’ is a love ballad worth rooting for!

Chennai, Aug 18 (IANS) The makers of director Sherief’s upcoming film ‘Gandhi Kannadi’, through which well known comedian ‘Kalakka Povadhu Yaaru ‘(KPY) fame Bala is to make his debut as a hero, on Monday released the second single from the film, a romantic number titled ‘Thimurukaari’, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Taking to his social media timelines, the film’s director Sherief wrote, “#Thimurukaari The journey continues… Here’s our second single for you all!” — [ Gandhi Kannadi ] See you in theatres on SEPTEMBER 05 @sakthifilmfactory release #DebutDream Singer @rseanroldan”

Thimurukaari, which showcases two love stories — one of an elderly couple and another of a young couple– has been rendered soulfully by music director Sean Roldan. The song has been set to tune by the gifted composer duo of Vivek and Mervin. Lyrics for the song have been penned by the director of the film, Sherief.

It may be recalled that the makers have already announced that the film will hit screens on September 5 this year.

The film is being produced by Jayi Kiran of Adhimulam Creations.

Director Sherief, who is directing this film, is best known for having made the gripping thriller ‘Ranam Aram Thavarel’.

KPY Bala, whose wit and sense of comic timing has helped win hearts, will be seen playing an emotionally intense character in his debut film as a hero.

Sources say the film, which is based on a true story, will be a feel-good emotional drama and that Sherief, apart from directing it, has also written the story and screenplay for the film. They added that the shooting of the film had been successfully completed.

It may be recalled that producer JayiKiran had, on an earlier occasion, said, “Gandhi Kannadi is not just our first film—it’s a story that moved me deeply. The sincerity and emotion in the script are what made me want to bring it to life. I’m incredibly proud of the cast and crew who have poured their hearts into this film. With Bala stepping into a powerful role and a solid team backing the vision, I believe we’ve created something truly special.”

KPY Bala, who has made a mark with his humour and humanity, now steps into the spotlight with his first-ever lead role in ‘Gandhi Kannadi’. He portrays an emotionally layered protagonist in this feel-good drama.

Director Sherief had said, “Gandhi Kannadi is very personal to me. After the emotional weight of Ranam Aram Thavarel, I wanted to shift to something more grounded and uplifting. The moment I narrated the story to our producer, his instant approval gave me all the motivation I needed. It’s Bala’s debut as a hero, and having Balaji Sakthivel sir and Archana ma’am—both National Award-winners—along with Namitha in a key role, really strengthens the film. I’m confident that we’ve created a film that’s honest and full of heart.”

–IANS

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Athiyan Athirai’s ‘Thandakaaranyam’ to hit screens on September 19

Chennai, Aug 18 (IANS) The makers of director Athiyan Athirai’s eagerly awaited film ‘Thandakaaranyam’, featuring actors Dinesh and Kalaiyarasan in the lead, on Monday announced that the film would hit screens worldwide on September 19 this year.

Director Pa Ranjith’s production house, Neelam productions, which is one of the firms producing the film, took to its X timeline to make the announcement.

It wrote, “A wild truth behind wildlife and its warriors. Thandakaaranyam from Sept 19 – Mark the dates.”

The film, which has been produced by director Pa Ranjith’s Neelam productions in association with Learn and Teach production, will also feature actors Rithyvika, Vinsu Sam, Muthukumar, Aruldass and Saranya Ravichandran in important roles.

It may be recalled that the film has already been cleared by the Censor Board for release with an U/A certificate.

Actor Shabeer Kallarakkal, who impressed with his performance as ‘Dancing Rose’ in the sports drama Sarpetta Parambarai, will be seen playing a pivotal role in this film, which will also feature comedian Bala Saravanan in a prominent role.

On the technical front, the film will have music by Justin Prabhakaran and cinematography by Pratheep Kaliraja. Editing for the film will be by Selva while art direction has been handled by Tha Ramalingam.

Sources close to the unit of the film say that shooting for the film took place completely in forests and in villages situated in mountains. This apart, sequences were also shot in hilly regions.

Needless to say, the film has triggered huge interest as director Athiyan Athirai’s previous film, ‘Irandam Ulaga Porin Kadaisi Gundu’ (The Last Bomb of the Second World War) was a critical and commercial success.

‘Irandam Ulaga Porin Kadaisi Gundu’, which showcased how the working class in the informal sector was exploited by their owners, also highlighted beautifully the problems pertaining to caste and also touched upon the issue of honour killing. Interestingly, Attakathi Dinesh played the lead in this film too.

–IANS

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Sheeba Chaddha reveals she would ‘love to be offered roles beyond just being a mother’

Mumbai, Aug 18 (IANS) Versatile actress Sheeba Chaddha has once again brought her authentic style to the screen as Sushma Kataria in ZEE5’s slice-of-life dramedy “Bakaiti”.

Despite enjoying a career full of such memorable performances, Sheeba admitted that she is eager for scripts that challenge her as an actor.

She shared that she finds it thrilling to explore the parts that break molds, offering richer layers.

“It would be even more exciting to have more exciting writing offered to me,” she said.

“I am phenomenally happy with the kind of sets I go to, the kind of people I work with—honestly, such a blessing, but I would love to have more exciting writing offered to me where the role is not just of a mother but a lot more,” Sheeba concluded.

Talking about her most recent outing, Sheeba is seen as the matriarch of the Kataria family with warmth, humour, and an unshowy depth in “Bakaiti”. She is the glue that holds the family together.

Set in the lively lanes of old Ghaziabad, “Bakaiti” revolved around the Kataria family as they navigate through sibling squabbles, financial stress, and everyday chaos. When Naina (Played by Tanya Sharma) is forced to share her room with her prankster brother Bharat (Played by Aaditya Shukla), however, when a sudden twist threatens their fragile peace, Sheeba’s character becomes the emotional anchor, reminding us that love and laughter might just be enough to hold a family together.

Made under the direction of Ameet Guptha, “Bakaiti” also features Rajesh Tailang as Sanjay Kataria, Tanya Sharma as Naina Kataria, Aaditya Shukla as Bharat Kataria, along with Keshav Sadhna, Ramesh Rai, Poonam Jangra, Shashwat Chaturvedi, and Parvinder Jit Singh in ancillary roles.

During her tenure as an actress, Sheeba has delivered several memorable characters in films such as “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”, “Parzania”, “Delhi 6”, “Luck by Chance”, and “Talaash”, to name just a few.

–IANS

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Tamil TV actor T. Ravichandran moves Madras HC for anticipatory bail in case linked to threat against Kamal Haasan

Chennai, Aug 18 (IANS) Television actor T. Ravichandran has approached the Madras High Court seeking anticipatory bail after the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of Chennai police booked a case against him for allegedly issuing a death threat to Rajya Sabha member and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) founder Kamal Haasan.

On Monday, Justice G. Jayachandran heard the plea and directed the government advocate to obtain details from the CCB before posting the case for further hearing on Wednesday.

Ravichandran told the court that the remarks he made during a YouTube interview had been “unintentional” and were not intended as a real threat.

The controversy began when Haasan, while speaking at the 15th anniversary celebrations of actor Suriya’s Agaram Foundation earlier this month, stressed the importance of education as a tool for social transformation.

He noted that education was the “only weapon” capable of breaking what he described as the shackles of Sanatana Dharma.

Ravichandran, reacting in an interview with a YouTube channel, strongly objected to Haasan’s choice of words. He went on to warn that he would slit the MP’s throat if such remarks continued.

The statement triggered widespread criticism and alarm, leading MNM vice-president and retired IPS officer A.G. Mourya to lodge a formal complaint with the Greater Chennai Police Commissioner on August 10.

The complaint was forwarded to the CCB, which registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the actor.

In his bail petition, Ravichandran argued that the FIR had been registered without conducting a preliminary inquiry and claimed he was unaware of the specific crime number.

He further said he had no actual intention of harming Haasan, adding that he came from a “respectable family background” and was prepared to comply with any conditions the court may impose while considering his request for bail.

The High Court will take up the matter again on August 20 after hearing from the police.

–IANS

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